How to Buy a Mississippi Car Tag

Mississippi law requires drivers to get a car tag.

Car owners in Mississippi are required register their vehicle and get a car tag. This applies to drivers in Mississippi who buy a new car from a dealership, buy a car in a private sale, relocate to Mississippi or renew a current tag.

Deadlines

Late fees apply if you fail to renew your tag.

If you buy a new car in Mississippi, you cannot use a tag from your old car. New cars must be registered for a new tag within seven days of purchase. Mississippi drivers must also renew the tag before it expires. There's a 15-day grace period to renew without a late fee. After 15 days, late fees increase up to 25 percent.

Where to Purchase a Car Tag

According to the Mississippi Department of Revenue, car tags can be purchased through the county tax collector's office. The Department of Revenue also says, "You will need to register the vehicle in the county where the vehicle is domiciled, or where it is parked (garaged) overnight." Contact the county tax collector's office to ask how much the tag will cost.

Required Documents

Odometer disclosure statements may be required to purchase a tag.

County tax collectors require you to submit documentation for your vehicle to purchase a tag. According to the Hinds County tax collector, you must be prepared to submit the vehicle's original title, an odometer disclosure statement for vehicles less than 10 years old, a copy of the current tag receipt if you bought the vehicle from a private seller and a window sticker with the manufacturer's suggested retail price for newer vehicles.

Penalties

Drivers who relocate to Mississippi must register their vehicle within 30 days if they have a tag from their previous state of residence. New Mississippi residents who fail to register their vehicle within 30 days can face a $250 penalty.

References

• Mississippi Department of Revenue: Motor Vehicle Licensing FAQs
• Hinds County Tax Collector: Requirements For Most Tag Transactions